This national strategy document has been prepared jointly by the Department of Employment and Learning and the Department of Education in Northern Ireland (part of the UK).

It sets out the background to the development of the strategy; describes and analyses the social and economic context including the ongoing reforms of the education and training system; draws attention to future skills needs and the importance of labour market information; and outlines the role of careers education and guidance in assisting individuals in managing their career paths through these changing circumstances.

The strategy sets out a vision for the provision of career guidance in the next five years and provides policy commitments to the following:

• an accountability and quality assurance framework
• E- guidance delivery and labour market information
• work experience
• accessing impartial advice, and
• E-portfolio